Sports

Hendrickson head coach Chip Killian hand over the regional semi final trophy after beating Sachse Mustangs 42-35 during the third round of the Class 6A, Division I playoffs on Saturday, December 2, 2017 at Waco ISD Stadium in Waco, Texas. (RICARDO B. BRAZZIELL / AMERICAN-STATESMAN)

I felt that this image was a very powerful moment from The Leander Rouse Raiders. It was almost like the four teammates was looking in the mirror when they were overcome with emotion after losing to Aledo Bearcats in overtime 3-2 during the Class 5A girls state semifinal at the Georgetown.Leander Rouse Raiders (3) Alivia Sparschu hugs (7) Rika Kocek as they are over come with emotion after losing to Aledo Bearcats in overtime 3-2 during the Class 5A girls state semifinal at the Georgetown ISD Athletic Complex on Thursday, April 13, 2017.RICARDO B. BRAZZIELL/AMERICAN-STATESMAN

Leander Rouse Raiders (3) Alivia Sparschu hugs (7) Rika Kocek as they are over come with emotion after losing to Aledo Bearcats in overtime 3-2 during the Class 5A girls state semifinal at the Georgetown ISD Athletic Complex on Thursday, April 13, 2017.RICARDO B. BRAZZIELL/AMERICAN-STATESMAN

New England Patriots #46 James Develin celebrates after receiving the Vince Lombardi Trophy for beating the Atlanta Falcons 34-28 in overtime on Sunday, Feb. 5 , 2017 during the NFL Super Bowl LI football game at the NRG Stadium in Houston, Texas. RICARDO B. BRAZZIELL/AMERICAN-STATESMAN

This is one of my favorite images of the year because I had to work so hard to get a simple predicable moment. I was running, pushing, elbowing, and stepping on players, sport reporters, fans, sport photographer’s feet and anyone on the field that had a Super Bowl credential that was working just as hard as I was to get the same shot, it felt like I was in a washing machine, however this moment of New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady was worth it for the Chicago Bears fan.New England Patriots Tom Brandy celebrates after receiving the Vince Lombardi Trophy for beating the Atlanta Falcons 34-28 in overtime on Sunday, Feb. 5 , 2017 during the NFL Super Bowl LI football game at the NRG Stadium in Houston, Texas. RICARDO B. BRAZZIELL/AMERICAN-STATESMAN

Texas head baseball coach David Pierce answer questions from the local news media on the first day of practice for the 2017 baseball season at UFCU Disch-Falk Field on Friday, January 27, 2017. RICARDO B.BRAZZIELL/AMERICAN-STATESMAN

Texas head baseball coach David Pierce warms up during the first practice of the 2017 baseball season at UFCU Disch-Falk Field on Friday, January 27, 2017. RICARDO B.BRAZZIELL/AMERICAN-STATESMAN

Texas head baseball coach David Pierce warms up during the first practice of the 2017 baseball season at UFCU Disch-Falk Field on Friday, January 27, 2017. RICARDO B.BRAZZIELL/AMERICAN-STATESMAN

Texas baseball player Kacy Clemens warms up during the first practice of Texas’ 2017 baseball season with his new head coach David Pierce at UFCU Disch-Falk Field on Friday, January 27, 2017. RICARDO B.BRAZZIELL/AMERICAN-STATESMAN

Texas baseball player Andres Sosa warms up during the first practice of Texas’ 2017 baseball season with his new head coach David Pierce at UFCU Disch-Falk Field on Friday, January 27, 2017. RICARDO B.BRAZZIELL/AMERICAN-STATESMAN

Texas baseball player Morgan Cooper Answer questions from the local news media before preparing for his first practice of Texas’ 2017 baseball season with their new head coach David Pierce at UFCU Disch-Falk Field on Friday, January 27, 2017. RICARDO B.BRAZZIELL/AMERICAN-STATESMAN

Texas baseball players prepare for their first practice of Texas’ 2017 baseball season with their new head coach David Pierce at UFCU Disch-Falk Field on Friday, January 27, 2017. RICARDO B.BRAZZIELL/AMERICAN-STATESMAN

Texas baseball players prepare for their first practice of Texas’ 2017 baseball season with their new head coach David Pierce at UFCU Disch-Falk Field on Friday, January 27, 2017. RICARDO B.BRAZZIELL/AMERICAN-STATESMAN

Texas head baseball coach David Pierce warms up during the first practice of the 2017 baseball season at UFCU Disch-Falk Field on Friday, January 27, 2017. RICARDO B.BRAZZIELL/AMERICAN-STATESMAN

Jan 27, 2017 | Sports | Comments Off on First day of practice with new head coach David Pierce

Texas State University Strutters dance team walk though their routine during practice as they prepare to perform at the 2017 United States Presidential Inauguration in Washington D.C on January 20,2017. The Strutters also have performed at the John F. Kennedy and Lyndon B. Johnson Presidential Inauguration. RICARDO B. BRAZZIELL/AMERICAN-STATESMAN

Texas State University Strutters dance team walk though their routine during practice as they prepare to perform at the 2017 United States Presidential Inauguration in Washington D.C on January 20,2017. The Strutters also have performed at the John F. Kennedy and Lyndon B. Johnson Presidential Inauguration. RICARDO B. BRAZZIELL/AMERICAN-STATESMAN

Texas State University Strutters dance team walk though their routine during practice as they prepare to perform at the 2017 United States Presidential Inauguration in Washington D.C on January 20,2017. The Strutters also have performed at the John F. Kennedy and Lyndon B. Johnson Presidential Inauguration. RICARDO B. BRAZZIELL/AMERICAN-STATESMAN

Texas State University Strutters dance team walk though their routine during practice as they prepare to perform at the 2017 United States Presidential Inauguration in Washington D.C on January 20,2017. The Strutters also have performed at the John F. Kennedy and Lyndon B. Johnson Presidential Inauguration. RICARDO B. BRAZZIELL/AMERICAN-STATESMAN

Texas State University Strutters dancer Nicole Wofford gets ready for practice on Wednesday, January 11, 2017. Texas State University Strutters prepare to perform at the 2017 United States Presidential Inauguration in Washington D.C on January 20,2017. The Strutters also have performed at the John F. Kennedy and Lyndon B. Johnson Presidential Inauguration.RICARDO B. BRAZZIELL/AMERICAN-STATESMAN

Texas State University Strutters dancer head caption Laycen Watson helps her dancers line up as they gets ready for practice on Wednesday, January 11, 2017. Texas State University Strutters prepare to perform at the 2017 United States Presidential Inauguration in Washington D.C on January 20,2017. The Strutters also have performed at the John F. Kennedy and Lyndon B. Johnson Presidential Inauguration.RICARDO B. BRAZZIELL/AMERICAN-STATESMAN

Texas State University Strutters dance instructor Tammy Fife helps her dancers line up as they gets ready for practice on Wednesday, January 11, 2017. Texas State University Strutters prepare to perform at the 2017 United States Presidential Inauguration in Washington D.C on January 20,2017. The Strutters also have performed at the John F. Kennedy and Lyndon B. Johnson Presidential Inauguration.RICARDO B. BRAZZIELL/AMERICAN-STATESMAN

Texas State University Strutters dancer Nicole Wofford lines up as she gets ready for practice on Wednesday, January 11, 2017. Texas State University Strutters prepare to perform at the 2017 United States Presidential Inauguration in Washington D.C on January 20,2017. The Strutters also have performed at the John F. Kennedy and Lyndon B. Johnson Presidential Inauguration.RICARDO B. BRAZZIELL/AMERICAN-STATESMAN

Members of Epsilon Iota Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity perform as they make their way through the Juneteenth parade on Saturday, June 18,2016. Juneteenth, also known as Juneteenth Independence Day or Freedom Day is a holiday in the United States that commemorates the announcement of the abolition of slavery in the U.S. state of Texas in June 1865, and more generally the emancipation of African-American slaves throughout the Confederate South.RICARDO B. BRAZZIELL/AMERICAN-STATESMAN

Greater Houston All-Star Marching Show Band make perfroms during the parade on Saturday, June 18, 2016. Juneteenth, also known as Juneteenth Independence Day or Freedom Day is a holiday in the United States that commemorates the announcement of the abolition of slavery in the U.S. state of Texas in June 1865, and more generally the emancipation of African-American slaves throughout the Confederate South.RICARDO B. BRAZZIELL/AMERICAN-STATESMAN

Kids rush to pick up candy during the Juneteenth parade on Saturday, June 18, 2016. Juneteenth, also known as Juneteenth Independence Day or Freedom Day is a holiday in the United States that commemorates the announcement of the abolition of slavery in the U.S. state of Texas in June 1865, and more generally the emancipation of African-American slaves throughout the Confederate South.RICARDO B. BRAZZIELL/AMERICAN-STATESMAN

Greater Houston All-Star Marching Show Band make perfroms during the parade on Saturday, June 18, 2016. Juneteenth, also known as Juneteenth Independence Day or Freedom Day is a holiday in the United States that commemorates the announcement of the abolition of slavery in the U.S. state of Texas in June 1865, and more generally the emancipation of African-American slaves throughout the Confederate South.RICARDO B. BRAZZIELL/AMERICAN-STATESMAN

Austin All-Star Marching Show Band make perfroms during the parade on Saturday, June 18, 2016. Juneteenth, also known as Juneteenth Independence Day or Freedom Day is a holiday in the United States that commemorates the announcement of the abolition of slavery in the U.S. state of Texas in June 1865, and more generally the emancipation of African-American slaves throughout the Confederate South.RICARDO B. BRAZZIELL/AMERICAN-STATESMAN

A fan Looks on during the UIL Class 3A finals championship game between the Grapevine Mustangs against the Whitehouse Wildcats at the Dell Diamond on Thursday, June 9, 2016.RICARDO B. BRAZZIELL/AMERICAN-STATESMAN

West Trojans baseball team runs to teammate Bailey Horn as the celebrate during the UIL Class 3A finals championship game at the Dell Diamond on Thursday, June 9, 2016. The West Trojans beat the Van Alstyne Panthers 10-4.RICARDO B. BRAZZIELL/AMERICAN-STATESMAN

West Trojans Griffin Paxton run in safe a home plate for a score against Van Alstyne Panthers Jon Burge during the UIL Class 3A finals championship game at the Dell Diamond on Thursday, June 9, 2016. The West Trojans beat the Van Alstyne Panthers 10-4.RICARDO B. BRAZZIELL/AMERICAN-STATESMAN

Van Alstyne Panthers Jake Hillebrenner tries to make a double play at second base against West Trojans Griffin Paxton during the UIL Class 3A finals championship game at the Dell Diamond on Thursday, June 9, 2016. The West Trojans beat the Van Alstyne Panthers 10-4.RICARDO B. BRAZZIELL/AMERICAN-STATESMAN

West Trojans Preston Macik and teammate Hunter Kruppa celebrates a score against the the Van Alstyne Panthers during the UIL Class 3A finals championship game at the Dell Diamond on Thursday, June 9, 2016. The West Trojans beat the Van Alstyne Panthers 10-4.RICARDO B. BRAZZIELL/AMERICAN-STATESMAN

West Trojans Preston Macik makes a pass to West Trojans Griffin Paxton as he catches the ball and runs down Van Alstyne Panthers Bryce Moody for an out during the UIL Class 3A finals championship game at the Dell Diamond on Thursday, June 9, 2016. The West Trojans beat the Van Alstyne Panthers 10-4.RICARDO B. BRAZZIELL/AMERICAN-STATESMAN

Van Alstyne Panthers Brady Welch left and Trey Jones right are overcome with emotion after losing to West Trojans during the UIL Class 3A finals championship game at the Dell Diamond on Thursday, June 9, 2016. The West Trojans beat the Van Alstyne Panthers 10-4.RICARDO B. BRAZZIELL/AMERICAN-STATESMAN

West Trojans baseball team runs to teammate Bailey Horn as the celebrate during the UIL Class 3A finals championship game at the Dell Diamond on Thursday, June 9, 2016. The West Trojans beat the Van Alstyne Panthers 10-4.RICARDO B. BRAZZIELL/AMERICAN-STATESMAN

Flatonia Bulldogs Nick Flores celebrates after sliding in safe a home plate during the top of 4th inning against the Bosqueville Bulldogs in the Class 2A Semifinals during the UIL baseball Tournament at Dell Diamond on Wednesday, June 8, 2016. Flatonia Bulldogs beat Bosqueville Bulldogs 10-4RICARDO B. BRAZZIELL/AMERICAN-STATESMAN

Stamford Bulldogs Wesley Gonzales is overcome with emotion after losing 9-0 against Beckville Bearcats in the Class 2A Semifinals during the UIL baseball Tournament at Dell Diamond on Wednesday, June 8, 2016.

Beckville Bearcats celebrate a win to advance over the Stamford Bulldogs in the in the Class 2A Semifinals during the UIL baseball Tournament at Dell Diamond on Wednesday, June 8, 2016. Beckville Bearcats beat the Stamford Bulldogs 9-0.RICARDO B. BRAZZIELL/AMERICAN-STATESMAN

Stamford Bulldogs Garett Ramos is overcome with emotion after losing 9-0 against Beckville Bearcats in the Class 2A Semifinals during the UIL baseball Tournament at Dell Diamond on Wednesday, June 8, 2016.RICARDO B. BRAZZIELL/AMERICAN-STATESMAN

UT Recruit, Salado High School senior shortstop Mallory Schattle connects with the ball during practice on Thursday, May 5, 2016. Salado has a chance to reach state in softball for the first time in school history. Mallory Schattle the only girl in school history to have an athletic scholarship for softball. She’s the hitting and defensive start of team that is 18-7.

Manor triple-jumper Jonathan Gaston, who enters the Class 5A state meet with the top qualifying mark. This past fall, he led Manor to the Class 5A, Division II football playoffs as the team’s starting quarterback. Jonathan Gaston practice his technique at Manor High School track and field on Tuesday, May 10, 2016.RICARDO B. BRAZZIELL/AMERICAN-STATESMAN

Manor High School Jonathan Gaston competes in the triple jump during the opening day of the UIL State Championship track and field at Mike A. Myers Stadium on Thursday, May 12, 2016. Jonathan Gaston came in 6th place during the competition.RICARDO B. BRAZZIELL/AMERICAN-STATESMAN

Carter Blunt of Frisco Independence high school takes a breath after wining in the 5A 3200 meter run during the UIL Track & Field Championship on Thursday, May 12 2016.RICARDO B. BRAZZIELL/AMERICAN-STATESMAN

Trenton Wallace of Grandview competes in the high jump during the UIL Track & Field Championship on Thursday, May 12 2016.RICARDO B. BRAZZIELL/AMERICAN-STATESMAN

From left to right, Salado high School Eagles Reagan Morreal, Katey Ewton, Sam Isbell and Ashlen LaCanne are overcome with emotion after losing against the Jasper High school Bulldogs 1-0 during the Class 4A girls state semifinal at Birkelbach Field in Georgetown,Texas on Wednesday, April 13, 2016.

Jasper High school Bulldogs celebrate the only score of the game to beat Salado High School Eagles 1-0 during the Class 4A girls state semifinal at Birkelbach Field in Georgetown,Texas on Wednesday, April 13, 2016.RICARDO B. BRAZZIELL/AMERICAN-STATESMAN

Teammates of the Salado high School Eagles are overcome with emotion after losing against the Jasper High school Bulldogs 1-0 during the Class 4A girls state semifinal at Birkelbach Field in Georgetown, Texas on Wednesday, April 13, 2016.RICARDO B. BRAZZIELL/AMERICAN-STATESMAN

Jasper High school Bulldogs Alivia RIchardson and Macy Kendrick celebrate a score over Salado Eagles 1-0 during the Class 4A girls state semifinal at Birkelbach Field in Georgetown,Texas on Wednesday, April 13, 2016.RICARDO B. BRAZZIELL/AMERICAN-STATESMAN

Salado high School Eagles China Saxtion lowers her head after Jasper High school Bulldogs scores 1-0 against Salado during the Class 4A girls state semifinal at Birkelbach Field in Georgetown,Texas on Wednesday, April 13, 2016.RICARDO B. BRAZZIELL/AMERICAN-STATESMAN

Salado high School Eagles against the Jasper High school Bulldogs during the Class 4A girls state semifinal at Birkelbach Field in Georgetown,Texas on Wednesday, April 13, 2016.RICARDO B. BRAZZIELL/AMERICAN-STATESMAN

Salado high School Eagles Kristin Crouch heads the ball against the Jasper High school Bulldogs Julie Carter during the Class 4A girls state semifinal at Birkelbach Field in Georgetown,Texas on Wednesday, April 13, 2016.RICARDO B. BRAZZIELL/AMERICAN-STATESMAN

Now in its 39th year, the Capitol 10,000 has grown to become the largest 10K in Texas. This year for the event, downtown Austin was filled with runners, supporters, volunteers, and a guy dressed as a piñata.

Video by Kelly West/American-Stateman

Apr 11, 2016 | Sports, Video | Comments Off on Austin’s Capitol 10,000 is the largest 10K in Texas

Deb Hurst, right, reacts after Noel Candelaria, left, a board member of the National Teachers Hall of Fame, reads that she and four other inductees travel to the White House to meet President Obama as part of her induction into the National Teachers Hall of Fame during a surprise announcement held at Mills Elementary in Austin, Texas, on Wednesday, March 23, 2016. Hurst an early education and students with special needs specialist is only the fifth teacher from Texas to be inducted to the National Teachers Hall of Fame. RODOLFO GONZALEZ/AUSTIN AMERICAN-STATESMAN

The Easter Bunny played by Carl Baldwin uses a fan to cool off in between portraits with children at Barton Creek Mall in Austin, Texas, on Thursday, March 24, 2016. Visits and pictures with the Easter Bunny end on Saturday. RODOLFO GONZALEZ/AUSTIN AMERICAN-STATESMAN

Alff’s Florist clerk, Rachael Bandy, left, makes change as Delia Alcala, of Bastrop, second from left, passes snacks to her daughters, Nancy, 16, center, and Monica, 17, right, during a break in performing with the Danza Azteca de Cristo Rey during Easter Mass held at Cristo Rey Catholic Church in Austin, Texas, on Sunday, March 27, 2016. RODOLFO GONZALEZ/AUSTIN AMERICAN-STATESMAN

Jesus Christ, portrayed by Armando Espinoza reenacts the Passion of Christ, with other parishioners of college youth of the Schoenstatt movement, during a Good Friday procession to commemorate the Stations of the Cross in Austin TX. on Friday, March 25, 2016. RICARDO B. BRAZZIELL/AMERICAN-STATESMAN

Duke Thomas works out for NFL scouts as he makes his way through drills during NFL Pro day at the University of Texas on Wednesday, March 23, 2016. RICARDO B. BRAZZIELL/AMERICAN-STATESMAN

Texas players, left to right, Lashann Higgs, Kelsey Lang, Brooke McCarty, Ariel Atkins and Brianna Taylor along with associate head coach Travis Mays and head coach Karen Aston celebrate during their 73-55 win over Missouri at the Frank Erwin Center Monday March 21, 2016, to advance to the Sweet 16. JAY JANNER / AMERICAN-STATESMAN

Jim Brewer is overcome with emotion during the singing of “The Sprit of Aggieland” at the graduation ceremony for his daughter Jenny Brewer at his home in Circle C Ranch Tuesday March 22, 2016. Jim Brewer, a Class of 1980 Aggie, has pancreatic cancer and might not live long enough to see Jenny graduate from Texas A&amp;M University in May, so John Hurtado, second from left, Associate Dean of Engineering Academic and Student Affairs, traveled from College Station to conduct a graduation ceremony in Jim’s driveway. It was attended by dozens of family and friends. Left to right is Jim’s friend Dan Day, wife Lisa Brewer, son Mike Brewer, and friends Dale Laine and John Doucet. JAY JANNER / AMERICAN-STATESMAN

Marie Crumley, right with her daughter, Jackie Sharpe, smiles as she enters the house on Garden Street in East Austin where she lived during the 1940’s on Saturday, March 26, 2016. For the last 8 years the Annual Garden Street Reunion has been held to celebrate the memories of childhood in the neighborhood during the 1940s. The seniors who were born and grew up in the neighborhood and have all moved elsewhere have stayed connected for over 70 years .For several years they have expected that the seven cottages on Garden, Cross and Navasota, where some of them lived, would be demolished. But instead of a new development, the cottages are all being preserved by Loved homes and Sentell home Solutions. DEBORAH CANNON / AMERICAN-STATESMAN

On Thursday March 16, sisters Tair, Liron and Tagel Haim of the Israeli group, A-WA, thrilled a capacity crowd at their Thursday night SXSW 2016 showcase at Flamingo Cantina. The band was in town as part of their first North American tour. Reshma Kirpalani / American-Statesman

Phil Mickelson had all he could handle against young gun Daniel Berger during second round action pool play of the World Golf Championships Dell Match Play tournament at Austin Country Club Friday afternoon March 25, 2016. MIckelson finds trouble along the out of bounds fence on the par 5 6th hole. He was not able to advance the ball very far and ended up conceding the hole to Berger.
RALPH BARRERA/ AMERICAN-STATESMAN

A large gallery watches Jordan Spieth and Jamie Donaldson on Hole 14 at the World Golf Championships Dell Match Play at the Austin Country Club Wednesday March 23, 2016. JAY JANNER / AMERICAN-STATESMAN

The WGC-Dell match Play Quarterfinals was played Saturday afternoon March 26, 2016. Boating spectators on Lake Austin enjoy the hot weather and great golf acttion, in this case a little too much by drinking from a beer bong.
RALPH BARRERA/ AMERICAN-STATESMAN

Veteran Affairs and Military Installations Committee members, Senators Jose Rodriguez, left, and Sylvia Garcia, right, join in as they meet with the Senate Border Security Subcommittee Wednesday morning March 23, 2016 in the State Capitol extension to hear testimony from Jessica Vaughan, of the Center for Immigration Studies, on local law enforcement efforts to secure their border and identify areas where the state could invest to bolster infrastructure.
RALPH BARRERA/ AMERICAN-STATESMAN

March 23, 2016 – Austin Fire Department work on a single alarm fire at the Burger King located on North Lamar Boulevard in Austin, Texas, on Wednesday, March 23, 2016. The fire that started with a french fry fryer quickly engulfed the kitchen and spread to the attic of the building forcing a roof collapse and total loss of the restaurant. No injuries were reported. RODOLFO GONZALEZ/AUSTIN AMERICAN-STATESMAN

Reagan Raiders Alassani Djaneye drives to the basket against Vandergrift Vipers Reeve Durrill and Alex Fernandes in the first half of the game at Vandergrift Vipers High School on Tuesday, Feb. 23, 2016. RICARDO B. BRAZZIELL/AMERICAN-STATESMAN

Vandergrift Vipers Alex Fernandes and Drayton Whiteside fight for the loose ball against Reagan Raiders DeAnthony Rogers and Mark Wilson in the first half of the game at Vandergrift Vipers High School on Tuesday, Feb. 23, 2016. RICARDO B. BRAZZIELL/AMERICAN-STATESMAN

On signing day, Texas football coach Charlie Strong raved about the pancakes presented to the Longhorns’ coaching staff during an in-home visit with Manor linebacker Erick Fowler. Fowler’s mother, Ericka Williams, (at the stove) makes the pancakes every weekend for her children. Seated at the table are Kamrye Williams (hat) and her husband, Tavoris “TV” Murray, their children Kali Murray, 2 (head of table) and K’Lynn Murray, 6; and Nasya Hernandez, 11 (ponytail). LAURA SKELDING/AMERICAN-STATESMAN

Erick Fowler’s mother, Ericka Williams, makes the pancakes every weekend for her children in her favorite trusty skillet. LAURA SKELDING/AMERICAN-STATESMAN

After Erick Fowler signed with UT, his mother, Ericka Williams bought burnt orange All Stars. Her floor mat says it, but it’s true for Williams, she cooks with love. LAURA SKELDING/AMERICAN-STATESMAN

On signing day, Texas football coach Charlie Strong raved about the pancakes presented to the Longhorns’ coaching staff during an in-home visit with Manor linebacker Erick Fowler. Fowler’s mother, Ericka Williams, makes the pancakes every weekend for her children. A newspaper clip posted on the refrigerator has the story about her son signing with UT. LAURA SKELDING/AMERICAN-STATESMAN

Texas’s Michael Cantu celebrates a score against UNLV Rebels in the during the NCAA men’s college baseball game at the UFCU Disch-Falk Field in Austin,Tex., Tuesday, Feb. 19, 2016. RICARDO B. BRAZZIELL/AMERICAN-STATESMAN

Texas’s Kyle Johnston against UNLV Rebels during the NCAA men’s college baseball game at the UFCU Disch-Falk Field in Austin,Tex., Tuesday, Feb. 19, 2016. RICARDO B. BRAZZIELL/AMERICAN-STATESMAN

Texas’s Michael Cantu celebrates a score with his team against UNLV Rebels in the during the NCAA men’s college baseball game at the UFCU Disch-Falk Field in Austin,Tex., Tuesday, Feb. 19, 2016. RICARDO B. BRAZZIELL/AMERICAN-STATESMAN

Texas’s Bret Boswell tags out UNLV Rebels A.J. VanMeetren at second base during the NCAA men’s college baseball game at the UFCU Disch-Falk Field in Austin,Tex., Tuesday, Feb. 19, 2016. RICARDO B. BRAZZIELL/AMERICAN-STATESMAN

NLV Rebels Payton Squier grabs a out against Texas during the NCAA men’s college baseball game at the UFCU Disch-Falk Field in Austin,Tex., Tuesday, Feb. 19, 2016. RICARDO B. BRAZZIELL/AMERICAN-STATESMAN

Texas’s Michael Cantu celebrates after he is safe at second base against UNLV Rebels during the NCAA men’s college baseball game at the UFCU Disch-Falk Field in Austin,Tex., Tuesday, Feb. 19, 2016. RICARDO B. BRAZZIELL/AMERICAN-STATESMAN

Texas’s Kerwin Roach, Jr fights for the loose ball against West Virginia Jaysean Paige during the NCAA men’s college basketball game at the Frank Erwin Center in Austin, Tex., Tuesday, Feb 16, 2016. RICARDO B. BRAZZIELL/AMERICAN-STATESMAN

Texas’s Isaiah Taylor celebrates a three-point play against West Virginia during the NCAA men’s college basketball game at the Frank Erwin Center in Austin, Tex., Tuesday, Feb 16, 2016. RICARDO B. BRAZZIELL/AMERICAN-STATESMAN

Texas’s Head Coach Shaka Smart celebrates a win with Eric Davis, Jr. against West Virginia during the NCAA men’s college basketball game at the Frank Erwin Center in Austin, Tex., Tuesday, Feb 16, 2016. RICARDO B. BRAZZIELL/AMERICAN-STATESMAN

Texas’s Head Coach Shaka Smart and assistant Coach Mike Morrel celebrate after taking the lede lagainst West Virginia during the NCAA men’s college basketball game at the Frank Erwin Center in Austin, Tex., Tuesday, Feb 16, 2016. RICARDO B. BRAZZIELL/AMERICAN-STATESMAN

Texas’s Head Coach Shaka Smart celebrates lede against West Virginia during the NCAA men’s college basketball game at the Frank Erwin Center in Austin, Tex., Tuesday, Feb 16, 2016. RICARDO B. BRAZZIELL/AMERICAN-STATESMAN

Texas’s Isaiah Tayor drives up against West Virginia Tarik Phillip during the NCAA men’s college basketball game at the Frank Erwin Center in Austin, Tex., Tuesday, Feb 16, 2016. RICARDO B. BRAZZIELL/AMERICAN-STATESMAN

This is one of my favorite images because I was able to see and capture a very important and intimate moment not only for Suzanne Bryant, left and Sarah Goodfriend, right, but a moment for Texas. Suzanne Bryant and Sarah Goodfriend were the first two legal gay married couple in Texas. At this moment they were overcome with emotion as they prayed over their marriage vows with Rabbi Kerry Baker outside of the Travis County Clerk’s office in Austin, Texas Thursday, morning February 19, 2015. I was the only photojournalist there at that point and was one of the first to help break the story and deliver the information to the Statesman readers. Besides me kneeling on the ground and finding it hard to capture their faces with the morning sun beaming right behind their heads, it was the experience of being the first to report and witness the first two legal gay married couples in Travis County.RICARDO B. BRAZZIELL / AMERICAN-STATESMAN

Just days after the U.S. Supreme Court legalized gay marriage nationwide far left, Pam and Kris Holwer, Danny Gonzales and Julio Salinas exchange vows during a mass gay wedding ceremony on the south lawn of the Texas State Capitol on Saturday, July 4, 2015. RICARDO B. BRAZZIELL / AMERICAN-STATESMAN

I had to make a hard decision when I was editing on deadline after the game between the Texas Longhorns against the North Carolina Tar Heels. I felt that I picked the wrong image that evening and this images should have ran on the front page of the Sports section on Sunday, December 13, 2015. I was lucky to be able to capture so many images that showed the players, coaches, and fans burst of emotion in one photo. This was just a regular season game but the buzzer-beater felt like it was March Madness in December. Texas Guard Javan Felix hit the last second shot and sent the UT bench into a frenzy celebrating with his coach, and teammates in front of a nearly sold out Frank Erwin Center beating the No. 3 School in the nation 84-82. , Saturday, Dec. 12, 2015. RICARDO B. BRAZZIELL/AMERICAN-STATESMAN

I had to make a hard decision when I was editing on deadline after the game between the Texas Longhorns against the North Carolina Tar Heels. I felt that I picked the wrong image that evening and this images should have ran on the front page of the Sports section on Sunday, December 13, 2015. I was lucky to be able to capture so many images that showed the players, coaches, and fans burst of emotion in one photo. This was just a regular season game but the buzzer-beater felt like it was March Madness in December. Texas Guard Javan Felix hit the last second shot and sent the UT bench into a frenzy celebrating with his coach, and teammates in front of a nearly sold out Frank Erwin Center beating the No. 3 School in the nation 84-82. RICARDO B. BRAZZIELL/AMERICAN-STATESMAN

Jesus Gonzalez works on a frame of a new home in the Blackhawk subdivision in Pflugerville early Wednesday morning Oct. 7, 2015 during cool temperatures at sun rise. Weather in the Austin Texas area will reach a high of 90 degrees and no rain. Jesus Gonzalez says that its hard work building frames for a home but he loves what he do and getting up early in the morning to do it. RICARDO B. BRAZZIELL / AMERICAN-STATESMAN

Protesters from the Million March Texas event made their way from the MLK statue located on The University of Texas to the Texas State Capitol to protest against unjust killings by the Police around the nation. RICARDO B. BRAZZIELL / AMERICAN- STATESMAN

Protesters from the Million March Texas event made their way from the MLK statue located on The University of Texas to the Texas State Capitol to protest against unjust killings by the Police around the nation. RICARDO B. BRAZZIELL / AMERICAN- STATESMAN

Catalina Leverette takes time out during an interview to reflect on her son Jared Toussaint James. Jared Toussaint James is a 24 year old autistic man who was fatally shot as he tried to enter a stranger’s home in Austin RICARDO B. BRAZZIELL / AMERICAN- STATESMAN

Texas’s celebrates a win over Florida Gators to advice to the final four during the NCAA regional semifinal of the women’s Volleyball basketball game at Gregory Gymnasium in Austin, Tex., Saturday, Dec. 12, 2015. RICARDO B. BRAZZIELL/AMERICAN-STATESMAN

Hundreds of people gathered at Zilker Park on Sunday, Nov. 29, 2015 for the 49th Zilker Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony where on lookers watched and listen to the Austin Civic Wind Ensemble and the Barton Hills Choir. The Zilker Holiday Tree has more than 3,000 lights and 39 strands from the 155-foot-tall moon tower. RICARDO B. BRAZZIELL/AMERICAN-STATESMAN

Claire Rayburn console West Texas Fire Fighter Eddie Hykel as he is overcome with emotion as the names of the fallen first responders are read during a memorial service honoring volunteer firefighters who died in the line of duty. The 2015 First Responder Legislative Day and Memorial Service brought first responders from around the state on Wednesday, March 25, 2015. RICARDO B. BRAZZIELL / AMERICAN-STATESMAN

Texas’s celebrates a win over Florida Gators to advice to the final four during the NCAA regional semifinal of the women’s Volleyball basketball game at Gregory Gymnasium in Austin, Tex., Saturday, Dec. 12, 2015. RICARDO B. BRAZZIELL/AMERICAN-STATESMAN

Brock Anderson, 6, is buried in artificial snow by Rubi Martinez, left, 6, and Samantha Hetrick, 3, at the second annual Christmas Around The World party at Bethany Lutheran Church on Sunday December 20, 2015. Thirteen countries were represented by church members who shared their country’s food, decorations and stories. The party was held in conjunction with the annual Lessons and Carols worship service that featured a 50-piece orchestra and a 70-person choir. JAY JANNER / AMERICAN-STATESMAN

The Hakizimana family came to the U.S. last year from a refugee camp in Tanzania. The Gensler architects have made their Christmas amazing with gifts for the whole family. Mary Munerezo, 8 watches as Rachel Mapes, 8; Sophia Cartlidge; and Meagan Kilborn carry gifts into the Hakizimana’s apartment. LAURA SKELDING / AMERICAN-STATESMAN

Cadets gather for the morning formation as Lance Mason raises the flag at Texas A&amp;M University in College Station on Tuesday December 8, 2015. JAY JANNER / AMERICAN-STATESMAN

APD Officer Jermaine Kilgore holds up a shirt to see if Del Valle 1st grader Je’lyn Bell likes it during the Shop With a Cop event at the Capital Plaza Target on Thursday, December 17, 2015. Amigos en Azul provides a day for young elementary students to shop with an Austin police officer. Members of the organization along with other APD Officers volunteer their time shopping and then having lunch with the students who each were allowed to spend up to $125 for themselves and their families. DEBORAH CANNON / AMERICAN-STATESMAN

Ron Cranston, with Personal Attendant Coalition of Texas (PACT) a project of ADAPT of Texas, waits in the hallway in hopes of testifying before the House of Representatives Committee on Human Services that was holding a hearing on Interim Charge of Aging Texans held at the State Capitol in Austin, Texas, on Tuesday, December 15, 2015. Cranston said that the state had appropriated a salary increase of .14 cents per hour for community attendants to $8 per hour base wage. Cranston eventually had to leave the Capitol without testifying after public testimony went late into the afternoon. ADAPT of Texas said currently there are around 275,000 community attendant positions in Texas and the shortage of attendants filling those positions will grow as the population of Texas aging community grows. RODOLFO GONZALEZ / AUSTIN AMERICAN-STATESMAN

Rick Almeda is all smiles as he proudly shows his wife Senaida the perfect tacky sweater he has chosen for their work holiday party. Vagabond Vintage Clothing of Dallas is behind those Ugly Christmas Sweater kiosks on the street corners near downtown, like this one at Riverside Dr. and Congress Ave., that are becoming increasingly popular with all types of people, especially those in need of one for that special company holiday party.
RALPH BARRERA/ AMERICAN-STATESMAN

Bystanders watch as APD officers investigate the scene at 12th and Angelina Streets where a 6-year-old girl was hit by a car on Tuesday, December 15, 2015. The girl was crossing 12th Street to meet her mother when she was struck by the vehicle. The girl was transported to Dell Children’s Medical Center in critical condition. Charges are not expected to be filed against the driver of the vehicle. DEBORAH CANNON / AMERICAN-STATESMAN

Hannah Doerr, 10, from left, Alayna Hamade, 10, Ava Sweetland 10, Truman Hamade, 8, and Abigail Pore, 13, warm up moments before the start of the Austin Children’s Nutcracker at the Dougherty Arts Center on Sunday December 20, 2015. It was the last of nine performances in the 15th annual Austin City Ballet production of the Nutcracker, which featured 35 youth dancers. JAY JANNER / AMERICAN-STATESMAN

The University of Texas played Appalachian State at the Erwin Center on Tuesday, December 15, 2015. UT’s Cameron Ridley tries to take control of the ball during the first half. LAURA SKELDING / AMERICAN-STATESMAN

Pedro Suaste grieves the death of his co-worker, Armando Juarez, at a construction site on Gregg Manor Road in Manor on Wednesday November 18, 2015. According to Manor Police Lt. Ryan Phipps, the bucket on the track hoe (in background) fell off and struck Juarez around 11:20 a.m. Wednesday. He died at the scene. The crews were installing storm water drainage pipes. Manor police and OSHA are investigating. JAY JANNER / AMERICAN-STATESMAN

Juan Urquilla, left, holds a portrait of Jose de San Martin, and Tyler Rocha, holds a portrait of Simon Bolivar during an immigration reform rally on Saturday November 21, 2015. About 400 people rallied in downtown Austin to ask Gov. Greg Abbott to end his opposition to President Obama’s executive orders that would shield an estimated 4 million people in the country from deportation. JAY JANNER / AMERICAN-STATESMAN

Hundreds of protester gathered at Wooldridge Square Park and marched to the Texas Governor’s Mansion to protest Texas Governor Greg Abbott decision to close the borders to Syrian refugees. Two Texas State troopers look on as people stand on the sidewalk outside of the Governor’s Mansion on Sunday, Nov. 22, 2015. RICARDO B. BRAZZIELL / AMERICAN-STATESMAN

Victims of the recent flooding, like Christine Wharton, center, had their chance to get questions answered and just plain vent to county officials like Travis County judge Sarah Eckhardt, rescue personnel and anyone who would listen on a whole slew of problems they face in trying to recover from the devastating floods of late October 2015. They had their face to face in the South Rural Community Center in Del Valle, TX Thursday night November 19, 2015.RALPH BARRERA/ AMERICAN-STATESMAN

The Hess family’s home flooded several times, after the city dug a trench and water started seeping up through their driveway, and after the city repaved streets in their neighborhood, causing water to run into their home. They are “camping” in their living room, as the house is still torn up. Lara Hess plays with her children, Autumn, 4 and Torsten, 21 months.Many residents of North Acres blame the City of Austin for the May floods, saying the city repaved the streets after doing a wastewater project and drastically shrunk the height of curbs that used to contain water in the streets. The city has since milled down some streets, but some residents still are not satisfied and are even weighing legal action.LAURA SKELDING/AMERICAN-STATESMAN

Samantha Dean’s mother Kimberly Dean (facing camera) hugs Jennifer Martinez, one of Dean’s friends, outside the Bastrop County Courthouse on Wednesday, November 18, 2015. VonTrey Clark’s first appearance in district court in Bastrop was today. VonTrey Clark is charged with capital murder of multiple persons in the deaths of Samantha Dean and her unborn baby.LAURA SKELDING/AMERICAN-STATESMAN

Sharon Lamb, left, and Doug St. Onge, right, get a preview tour of the colorful sculpture as one of the many volunteers who will be on hand for the general public to view this weekend. The Architects of Air have brought the colorful sculpture the Pentalum Luminarium to Austin for the third year on the grounds of the Long Center. The sculpture offers an intense colorful experience lending itself to relaxation, meditation and fun. The designer Alan Parkinson shows the beauty of geometry and symmetry. The venue will be open for nearly two weeks. (no info there sorry)RALPH BARRERA/ AMERICAN-STATESMAN

Texas players before their game against Northwestern State at the Frank Erwin Center in Austin, Tx., on Wednesday, November 18, 2015. Texas beat Northwestern State 86-33. DEBORAH CANNON / AMERICAN-STATESMAN

Members of the Texas Hellraisers, including Alex Pustilmik put on their body makeup before the game. Texas defeated Texas A&M Corpus Christi 67-56 in their home opener at the Erwin Center Saturday night November 21, 2015.RALPH BARRERA/ AMERICAN-STATESMAN

Kerrville Tivy Jack Qualls (#25) and Larry Blundell hug after their season-ending loss to Cedar Park at Birkelbach Field in Georgetown on Friday November 20, 2015. JAY JANNER / AMERICAN-STATESMAN

It feels like it has been a few years (maybe 10 years) since I have put together any kind of Favorites, Pictures of the Year, Portfolio, or Year in Review. Honestly this is mostly about making sense of the fact that a “year” has come and gone! It really has been Kaaah-Razy! Hope it doesn’t take me another 10 years to do this again. Enjoy and Cheers, Rodolfo

MAY 18, 2014 – Evelyn Galindo, 16, far right, with Tapestry Dance Company Academy’s intermediate advanced ballet class stretches and wait backstage before performing in their schools’ spring recital, The Sleeping Beauty held at the Texas School for the Deaf in Austin, Texas, on Sunday May 18, 2014. (RODOLFO GONZALEZ / AMERICAN-STATESMAN)

JUNE 13, 2014 – Nan Boettcher, walks pass her dinning room and living room as her adjuster assesses the damage of her roof during clean up in Lakeway, Texas, on Friday, June 13, 2014. Nan and her husband, Schlick Boettcher were forced to retreat to a lower floor bathroom when the storm hit. “You could feel it, with all the noises we knew the house was coming apart,” said Nan Boettcher. High winds and an estimated 92mph micro burst straight line wind was reported in the area from Thursday night’s storm.(RODOLFO GONZALEZ / AMERICAN-STATESMAN)

JUNE 11, 2014 – Terry Holcomb watches his wife, Gina, fire a black powder gun as their daughter, Teagan, 16, looks on, during family shooting demonstration at their home in Cold Springs, Texas, on Wednesday, June 11, 2014. The family fired black powder pistols, an AR-15 22 caliber rifle and a 22 caliber pistol. (RODOLFO GONZALEZ / AMERICAN-STATESMAN)

MARCH 12, 2014 – Mandy Kimbrough, right, of Austin, eats her lunch as Alton Moore carrying his AR-15 on his back, waits to order a drink at LaVaaza Espression during a stop in the open carry group, Come And Take It Austin’s march towards 6th Street during the SXSW Music Festival held in Austin, Texas, on Wednesday, March 12, 2014. (RODOLFO GONZALEZ / AMERICAN-STATESMAN)

NOVEMBER 16, 2014: Bianca Nickleberry, a student from Texas A&M University Central Texas, cries as Taps were played during the 22nd annual House the Homeless Memorial Sunrise Service held at the homeless memorial tree on Auditorium Shores in Austin, Texas, on Sunday, November 16, 2014. Members of the community hung a dog tag with individual names for the 141 people that died this year in poverty. (RODOLFO GONZALEZ / AMERICAN-STATESMAN)

OCTOBER 28, 2014: Gretchen Lara Shartle, climbs down a flight of stairs on her way back to a luncheon and program after taking a tour of the recently finished Capital Studios apartments in Austin, Texas, on Tuesday, October 28, 2014. Capital Studios are the first affordable housing development built downtown in nearly half a century. The Foundation Communities, a non-profit, which runs other affordable complexes around the city, built this one with the help of tax credits and a loan from the Austin Housing Finance Corporation. (RODOLFO GONZALEZ / AMERICAN-STATESMAN)

OCTOBER 14, 2014 – The sun begins to rise from behind the construction site of the Hotel Van Zandt being built in the Rainey Street Historic District in Austin, Texas, on Tuesday, October 14, 2014. (RODOLFO GONZALEZ / AMERICAN-STATESMAN)

AUGUST 28, 2014 – Anderson team captains #7, Kirby Hill, #58, Evan Williams, #33, Braden Buckman, and #4, Gavin Graham, left to right, enter the team’s run through before taking the field against McCullum in the Taco Shack Bowl held at House Park in Austin, Texas on Thursday, August 28, 2014. (RODOLFO GONZALEZ / AMERICAN-STATESMAN)

AUGUST 30, 2014 – Texas head coach Charlie Strong and the Longhorns walk through the fans during the Texas Stampede to the team’s locker room before playing North Texas at The University of Texas at Austin Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Texas, on Saturday, August, 30, 2014. (RODOLFO GONZALEZ / AMERICAN-STATESMAN)

AUGUST 28, 2014 – Anderson #38, Eric Slatter loses his helmet after being hit hard by McCallum #10, Tohi Likam, left, and #2, Joseph Weathersby, behind during the first half of action in the Taco Shack Bowl held at House Park in Austin, Texas on Thursday, August 28, 2014. (RODOLFO GONZALEZ / AMERICAN-STATESMAN)

AUGUST 30, 2014 – Texas quarterback, David Ash gets up slowly from the turf after taking a hit from a North Texas defender during the second half of action held at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Texas, on Saturday, August, 30, 2014. Texas defeated North Texas 38-7. (RODOLFO GONZALEZ / AMERICAN-STATESMAN)

NOVEMBER 16, 2014: Texas #20, Brianna Taylor, goes over the top of UTSA #30, Tesha Smith and the team bench after going for a loose ball during the second half of action held at the University of Texas Frank Erwin Center, in Austin, Texas, on Saturday, November 16, 2014. Texas defeated UTSA 68-48. (RODOLFO GONZALEZ / AMERICAN-STATESMAN)

SEPTEMBER 13, 2014 – UCLA backup quarterback, #11, Jerry Neuheisel is picked up and carried by teammates after defeating Texas 20-17 in the Advocare Cowboys Showdown held at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, on Saturday, September 13, 2014. (RODOLFO GONZALEZ / AMERICAN-STATESMAN)

NOVEMBER 7, 2014: Reagan assistant coach, Robert Walker, left, runs down the sideline with Reagan’s David Jacob, during action against Crockett of a District 26-5A game held at Nelson Field in Austin, Texas, on Friday, November 7, 2014. Walker a 94′ alumni played for Reagan and now coaches the wide receivers. (RODOLFO GONZALEZ / AMERICAN-STATESMAN)

NOVEMBER 2, 2014: Mercedes AMG Petronas pit team waves from the fence as winner, Lewis Hamilton races past on the final lap during the Formula 1 United States Grand Prix 2014 held at the Circuit of the Americas in Austin, Texas, on Sunday, November 2, 2014. (RODOLFO GONZALEZ / AMERICAN-STATESMAN)

FEBRUARY 23, 2014 – Dancers spin on the small dance floor of the Ginny’s Little Longhorn Saloon as the Wyldwood Four performs rock-a-billy in Austin, Texas, on Sunday, February 23, 2014. Ginny’s Little Longhorn Saloon hosts live music seven days a week with Chicken Shit Bingo on Sundays. (RODOLFO GONZALEZ / AMERICAN-STATESMAN)

FEBRUARY 7, 2014 – Conjunto Romo from Kyle, Texas, headlines the second day of the Rancho Alegre Cunjonto Festival held at the Moose Lodge in Austin, Texas, on Friday, February 7, 2014. Conjunto Romo is a family band lead by father, Navor “Fonzie” Romo, left, and sons, Cedric, 20, center, J.J., 18, behind drums and Noe, 16, right. (RODOLFO GONZALEZ / AMERICAN-STATESMAN)

FEBRUARY 17, 2014 – Erin Walter, center, singer with the newly formed band, Regrettable Sweaters, whips her hair around as they perform during the Ladies Rock Camp Showcase held at Beerland in Austin, Texas, on Monday, February 17, 2014. Ladies Rock Camp is a three day camp for women of all skill levels that teach women how to play instruments, collaborate to write songs, form bands, and then perform live during the showcase which is a fund raiser for Girls Rock Austin. (RODOLFO GONZALEZ / AMERICAN-STATESMAN)

FEBRUARY 26, 2014 – Sharon Jones and the Dap Kings perform at ACL Live at the Moody Theater in Austin, Texas, on Wednesday, February 26, 2014. Sharon Jones less than two months after completing her six-month course of chemotherapy for pancreatic cancer has returned to the stage. (RODOLFO GONZALEZ / AMERICAN-STATESMAN)

Texas’ Kelsey Lang battles for a loose ball under the basket with New Mexico’s Bryce Owens, left, Khadijah Shumpert, right, during first half action. The Texas Longhorns played host to New Mexico in a non-conference game Wednesday night at the Frank Erwin Center December 3, 2014 defeating the Lobos 86-37.

Texas’ Ariel Atkins goes to the floor to secure a loose ball and give possession to Texas during first half action.